Proper planning, safeguards could have prevented New Bedford dock collapse, US Department of Labor inspection finds

Summary:

A U.S. Department of Labor investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identified Mohawk Northeast Inc., a Connecticut marine and heavy construction contractor, as responsible for the October 2023 collapse of a 200-foot section of pier in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The collapse occurred when five workers were plunged into the Acushnet River, resulting in two injuries. OSHA found that the company failed to determine if the pier's walking and working surfaces had sufficient strength and structural integrity to support employees and equipment, leading to four serious violations and one willful citation. OSHA proposed a total of $214,327 in penalties for the company's failure to provide proper safety measures, including fall protection, life jackets, and secure anchoring of equipment. The company has 15 business days to comply with the citations and penalties or contest the findings.